Creating a comfortable and beautiful resting place for your pets is one of the most rewarding projects you can make with fabric and a sewing machine. This Elevated Pet Beds Quilt Pattern combines the softness of quilted cushions with the practicality of a suspended, double-level pet bed. The design is especially attractive for cat owners who want to provide their pets with a cozy sleeping area while saving valuable floor space.
The inspiration for this project features two circular blue pet beds suspended vertically from a sturdy wall-mounted hook. Each sleeping platform is supported by wide fabric straps, creating a charming two-story arrangement. The cushions feature beautiful blue-and-white patterned fabric surrounded by bright royal-blue borders, giving the finished project a professional, coordinated appearance. The upper bed provides a comfortable resting place for one cat, while the lower level offers a separate sleeping area for another.
This DIY Hanging Cat Bed Sewing Tutorial is an excellent project for sewists who enjoy quilting, fabric accessories, and handmade pet furniture. Although the finished design looks elaborate, it can be constructed using basic sewing techniques, carefully measured fabric pieces, padded circular cushions, and reinforced support straps. The most important considerations are comfortable cushioning, secure stitching, correct weight distribution, and a properly rated mounting system. Because this project supports living animals above the floor, the support structure must be engineered and tested for the intended loads rather than relying on decorative stitching alone.
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In this complete guide, you will learn how to plan a two-level hanging pet bed, prepare the quilted cushions, sew decorative fabric covers, assemble reinforced support components, and finish the project with professional-looking details. The instructions are inspired by the image and provide a practical construction approach rather than an exact reproduction of an unseen original pattern. You can customize the colors, fabric designs, and cushion sizes to match your home while creating a beautiful handmade resting space for your cats.
Materials, Measurements, and Fabric Preparation for Elevated Pet Beds
The first step in creating a beautiful Quilted Elevated Pet Bed is choosing durable materials that combine comfort, appearance, and easy maintenance. Cats naturally enjoy soft surfaces, especially those that provide a little warmth and support. Cotton quilting fabric is excellent for decorative cushion covers, while sturdy canvas or upholstery fabric is more appropriate for the structural parts of the project.
The design in the image uses royal-blue fabric for the straps and outer cushion borders, with a coordinated blue-and-white geometric print for the sleeping surfaces. This combination creates a fresh, attractive appearance that works especially well in bright rooms, covered patios, and contemporary interiors. You can reproduce this palette or choose different colors according to your decorating preferences.
For the padded sleeping surfaces, medium-density foam provides a stable foundation, while polyester batting adds softness. A removable quilted cover is particularly useful because pet bedding needs regular cleaning. If you plan to make two beds, prepare matching materials for both platforms so the finished project has a balanced appearance.
The hanging components require special attention. Ordinary quilt cotton, batting, decorative fabric straps, and an unrated wall hook must never be treated as a verified load-bearing system. A safer approach is to build the decorative quilted beds around a commercially rated suspended pet-bed frame or engineered support assembly, using the manufacturer’s approved anchors, straps, and attachment hardware.
Materials required
- 1½–2 yards (1.4–1.8 m) of royal-blue cotton canvas or upholstery fabric.
- 1 yard (0.9 m) of blue-and-white patterned quilting cotton.
- 1 yard (0.9 m) of cotton fabric for cushion backing.
- Polyester quilt batting.
- Two circular foam cushions, approximately 2–3 in (5–7.5 cm) thick.
- Heavy-duty polyester sewing thread.
- Coordinating all-purpose thread for decorative quilting.
- Sewing machine suitable for the chosen fabric thickness.
- Size 16/100 or 18/110 sewing-machine needle for heavy fabrics, as appropriate.
- Fabric scissors or rotary cutter.
- Measuring tape.
- Fabric clips.
- Tailor’s chalk or washable fabric marker.
- Iron and ironing board.
- Two zippers for removable cushion covers.
- Optional piping cord for decorative edges.
- Commercially rated two-tier pet-bed suspension frame or professionally designed support assembly.
- Compatible, load-rated hardware and anchors specified by the support-system manufacturer.
Recommended dimensions
The following measurements are for the soft cushion components of a medium-sized two-level cat bed.
| Component | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Finished upper cushion diameter | 16 in (40.5 cm) |
| Finished lower cushion diameter | 16 in (40.5 cm) |
| Cushion thickness | 2–3 in (5–7.5 cm) |
| Circular fabric cutting diameter | 17 in (43 cm) |
| Seam allowance | ½ in (1.3 cm) |
| Foam cushion diameter | Approximately 16 in (40.5 cm) |
| Decorative side-band cutting length | 51¼ in (130 cm) |
| Decorative side-band cutting width | Foam thickness + 1 in (2.5 cm) |
| Suggested vertical platform separation | 12–16 in (30–40.5 cm), subject to support-frame specifications |
The side-band measurement includes a small allowance for joining the strip ends. Check the circumference of your actual foam insert before cutting, since foam dimensions may vary.
Choosing the right fabrics
For the visible sleeping surfaces, choose a tightly woven cotton fabric that can withstand repeated washing. Quilting cotton is available in beautiful prints and can be combined with batting to create an attractive padded finish.
For the outer cushion borders, canvas provides greater durability. It is also easier to coordinate with the wider decorative straps shown in the image.
Avoid loose-weave fabrics that can catch claws. Also avoid long decorative cords, exposed loops, and dangling embellishments that might create an entanglement hazard.
Preparing the fabric
Wash and dry washable fabrics before cutting to reduce future shrinkage.
Iron each piece until smooth.
Place the fabric on a large cutting surface and mark the required shapes.
Use a rotary cutter for straight strips and sharp fabric scissors for circular pieces.
Keep all measurements consistent between the upper and lower cushions.
Cutting the cushion pieces
For each cushion, cut:
- One 17-inch (43 cm) circular piece of patterned fabric for the top.
- One 17-inch (43 cm) circular piece of backing fabric.
- One circular piece of batting, slightly larger than the finished cushion.
- One fabric strip for the side band, sized to the foam thickness.
- One circular foam insert measuring approximately 16 inches (40.5 cm) across.
Repeat the same cutting process for the second cushion.
The decorative covers can be quilted independently before they are fitted onto the foam inserts.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: Sewing the Circular Quilted Pet Cushions
The cushions are the most visible part of this Elevated Cat Bed Sewing Pattern. Their round shape creates a comfortable sleeping surface, while the quilted fabric adds texture and decorative detail. By making two matching cushions, you can reproduce the coordinated appearance shown in the reference image.
Begin with the patterned fabric circles and quilt batting. The batting adds a soft layer beneath the sleeping surface and helps the fabric maintain a smooth appearance. For the most attractive result, use evenly spaced quilting lines or a simple geometric quilting design.
You can quilt the fabric with straight lines, diamonds, or gentle curves. A diamond quilting pattern is particularly effective because it distributes the batting evenly and gives the cushion a classic handmade appearance.
Step 1: Prepare the quilt sandwich
Place the batting on a flat surface.
Position the patterned fabric circle on top, right side facing upward.
Smooth the layers carefully.
Use quilting clips or temporary basting to hold the layers together.
Avoid wrinkles or folds.
Step 2: Mark the quilting design
Use a washable fabric marker to draw parallel lines across the fabric.
Space the lines approximately 1½–2 inches (4–5 cm) apart.
For a diamond design, add a second set of diagonal lines.
Keep the pattern centered.
Step 3: Quilt the cushion top
Install a suitable needle in your sewing machine.
Select a straight stitch.
Begin quilting near the center.
Sew along the marked lines.
Work gradually toward the outer edges.
Smooth the fabric as you sew.
Step 4: Trim the quilted circle
After quilting, lay the fabric flat.
Use the original circular template to trim the quilted piece back to 17 inches (43 cm) in diameter.
Check that the edges remain smooth.
Repeat the process for the second cushion top.
Step 5: Prepare the side band
Measure the thickness of the foam insert.
Cut the side band wide enough to accommodate the foam plus seam allowances.
For example, a 2-inch (5 cm) foam insert requires a strip approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm) wide.
Join fabric strips if necessary to obtain the required circumference.
Press the seams open.
Step 6: Attach the side band to the cushion top
Fold the circular top into quarters and mark the quarter points.
Do the same with the side band.
Align the quarter marks.
Place the fabric pieces right sides together.
Clip around the circumference.
Sew using a ½-inch (1.3 cm) seam allowance.
Step 7: Prepare the cushion backing
Place the backing fabric on a flat surface.
Mark the center line where the zipper opening will be positioned.
For a removable cover, divide the backing into two sections and insert a zipper between them.
The zipper opening should be large enough to remove the foam insert without forcing or tearing the fabric.
Once the zipper is installed, trim the backing to the required circular shape.
Step 8: Attach the cushion backing
Open the zipper halfway.
Position the backing against the free edge of the side band, right sides together.
Align the quarter marks.
Clip the pieces securely.
Sew around the circumference.
Turn the cover right side out through the zipper opening.
Step 9: Insert the foam cushion
Fold the foam gently if needed.
Slide it through the zipper opening.
Adjust the foam until it fills the cover evenly.
Smooth the quilted top.
Close the zipper.
Step 10: Finish the second cushion
Repeat the same steps for the second sleeping platform.
Check that both cushions have matching diameters.
Place them side by side to compare the finished appearance.
The two Quilted Pet Bed Cushions are now ready to be used with an appropriate support system.
Creating the Double-Level Hanging Design and Decorative Fabric Details
The most distinctive feature of the Double-Level Elevated Pet Beds Pattern is its suspended construction. The reference image shows two circular sleeping platforms positioned one above the other, connected visually by long royal-blue fabric bands.
This arrangement makes efficient use of vertical space and creates separate resting areas for two cats. It can also become an attractive decorative feature in a room.
However, the structural suspension must be treated differently from ordinary quilt sewing. A hanging bed is subjected to more than the stationary weight of a sleeping cat. Jumping, climbing, twisting, and sudden movement introduce additional forces. The fabric seams, support frame, mounting hardware, and wall or ceiling structure must all be appropriate for those loads.
For that reason, this tutorial recommends using a commercially rated two-level pet-bed suspension system and making the blue fabric elements as decorative covers for its approved structural components. The exact lengths and attachment methods should follow the manufacturer’s specifications.
Step 1: Select the support system
Choose a suspended pet-bed frame or hanging system intended for the number and size of cats that will use it.
Check the manufacturer’s total weight rating.
Confirm that the rating includes both sleeping levels.
Review the approved installation method.
Do not substitute an ordinary coat hook or decorative curtain hardware for structural mounting equipment.
Step 2: Check the platform dimensions
Measure the support frame’s cushion platforms.
Compare those measurements with the completed 16-inch cushions.
The cushions should sit securely inside or on top of the support platforms without sliding.
If the frame uses different dimensions, adjust the fabric pattern before cutting.
Step 3: Plan the decorative straps
The image features wide blue fabric bands extending from the upper attachment point toward the lower bed.
You can reproduce this appearance with non-load-bearing fabric sleeves fitted around the support system’s rated straps.
Measure the approved straps after the frame has been assembled according to its instructions.
Allow enough fabric for a comfortable sleeve fit.
Avoid creating loose fabric loops accessible to pets.
Step 4: Cut the decorative strap covers
For each visible strap, cut a long rectangular fabric piece according to the actual strap dimensions.
The sleeve should be wide enough to fit around the structural strap without restricting it.
Add seam allowances.
Keep the decorative covers consistent in width.
Step 5: Sew the fabric sleeves
Fold each strip lengthwise with the right sides together.
Sew along the long edge.
Turn the sleeve right side out.
Press gently.
Insert the approved structural strap only if the support-system manufacturer permits a removable fabric cover.
The decorative fabric must not replace the rated strap.
Step 6: Add quilted accent patches
Cut small rectangles from the blue-and-white patterned fabric.
Place a layer of batting behind each patch if desired.
Quilt the patches with simple straight lines.
Turn under the raw edges.
Topstitch the patches onto the decorative sleeves.
This detail creates a coordinated appearance between the cushions and the hanging bands.
Step 7: Position the two cushions
Place the completed quilted cushions on the approved support platforms.
Make sure the upper cushion sits level.
Check that the lower cushion is centered.
Both cushions should remain stable when the structure moves gently within its intended operating range.
Step 8: Verify the installation
Install the support system exactly as directed by its manufacturer.
Use only approved hardware and suitable structural mounting points.
If the installation requires wall or ceiling anchoring and you are uncertain about the structure, consult a qualified installer.
Test the complete assembly with appropriate nonliving test loads according to the manufacturer’s guidance before allowing pets to use it.
Step 9: Inspect for hazards
Check that there are no sharp edges.
Remove loose threads.
Confirm that zippers are covered or positioned away from direct contact.
Make sure cats cannot become trapped between the platforms, straps, or wall.
Keep the bed away from railings, windows, and locations where a fall could be dangerous.
Step 10: Introduce the bed gradually
Allow your cats to explore the new cushions while the sleeping platforms are at floor level, if the system permits.
Place a familiar blanket or washable pet mat on each cushion.
Let the cats approach voluntarily.
Only use the elevated configuration after the structure has been correctly installed and checked.
Supervise initial use and discontinue use if either cat appears uncomfortable or the system shifts unexpectedly.
Customization, Cleaning, Safety Tips, and Frequently Asked Questions
One of the best features of this Handmade Elevated Pet Bed is the opportunity to customize the fabric design. Although the reference image uses bright blue fabric with a beautiful geometric print, many other combinations can produce equally attractive results.
For a sophisticated appearance, try navy blue and cream. For a soft bedroom style, combine dusty rose with ivory. Forest green and beige create a natural look, while gray and white offer a modern minimalist finish.
You can also use fabric scraps to create patchwork cushion tops. This makes the project especially appealing to quilters who enjoy combining different prints, textures, and colors.
Beautiful color combinations
Royal Blue and White: Bright, elegant, and similar to the reference image.
Navy Blue and Cream: A timeless combination for classic interiors.
Dusty Rose and Ivory: Soft and delicate.
Forest Green and Beige: Natural and cozy.
Gray and White: Modern and versatile.
Burgundy and Gold: Warm and luxurious.
Sage Green and Cream: Calm and sophisticated.
Lavender and White: Gentle and decorative.
Adding patchwork details
Create a patchwork cushion top using small fabric squares.
Sew the squares together with consistent seam allowances.
Press all seams carefully.
Cut the assembled patchwork into a circle.
Add batting and quilt as described earlier.
This creates a unique Patchwork Cat Bed Cushion with a traditional quilting appearance.
Making removable cushion covers
Removable covers are especially practical for pet bedding.
Use a zipper opening large enough for the foam insert.
Choose washable fabrics.
Prewash the materials before sewing.
Avoid decorative buttons or beads that pets could chew.
Keep spare covers available for cleaning days.
Maintaining the finished pet bed
Inspect the support system regularly.
Check the condition of the fabric covers.
Look for frayed edges, damaged stitching, or worn components.
Wash removable cushion covers according to the fabric care instructions.
Dry them completely before reinstalling.
Replace damaged structural components rather than attempting decorative sewing repairs.
Important pet safety considerations
Cats often jump onto elevated surfaces, which can create sudden forces on the support system.
The combined weight of multiple cats must be considered.
A support system should have a clearly documented load rating and appropriate safety margin for its intended use.
Mounting hardware must be compatible with the supporting structure.
Do not hang the bed from an unverified decorative wall hook.
Do not use ordinary quilt seams as the sole structural connection.
Avoid placing the bed above hard obstacles or hazardous objects.
Ensure pets can enter and exit without risky jumps.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elevated Pet Beds
1. Is this Elevated Pet Beds Quilt Pattern suitable for beginners?
The cushion covers are suitable for confident beginners. The suspended structure requires an appropriately rated support system and careful installation.
2. What is the best fabric for the cushions?
Cotton quilting fabric works well for the decorative top, while canvas or upholstery fabric is useful for durable borders.
3. Can I use polyester batting?
Yes. Polyester batting adds softness and helps create a quilted appearance.
4. What size should each cushion be?
The example uses a finished diameter of approximately 16 inches (40.5 cm). Adjust the size to match the support frame and your pets.
5. Can I make the cushions larger?
Yes, provided the support platform is designed for the larger dimensions.
6. Can I make a single-level version?
Absolutely. A single cushioned platform can be a simpler option when paired with an appropriately rated frame.
7. Can I use fabric scraps?
Yes. Fabric scraps are excellent for patchwork cushion tops and decorative accents.
8. Can I wash the finished cushions?
Removable fabric covers can be washed according to their care instructions. Follow the foam manufacturer’s guidance for cleaning the inserts.
9. What is the best foam thickness?
Approximately 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) is a useful starting point, depending on the foam density and platform design.
10. Can two cats use the hanging bed at the same time?
Only if the complete support system is specifically rated for the combined load and simultaneous use of both levels.
11. Can I hang the bed from a regular wall hook?
No. Use a properly rated mounting system installed in accordance with its manufacturer’s instructions.
12. Can I use this bed outdoors?
Only if the complete support system and materials are approved for the intended outdoor environment. Moisture and sunlight can weaken some materials over time.
13. How can I make the cushions more comfortable?
Choose suitable foam, add a quilted batting layer, and use soft, washable fabrics.
14. Can I sell handmade quilted cushion covers?
Yes, subject to applicable regulations and any relevant design rights. Do not make unsupported safety claims about structural pet furniture.
15. How long does the sewing project take?
Making two quilted cushion covers may take approximately four to eight hours, depending on your sewing experience and decorative details. Structural installation time is separate.
Conclusion
The Elevated Pet Beds Quilt Pattern is a beautiful way to combine creative sewing, traditional quilting techniques, and practical pet comfort. The double-level design shown in the reference image offers a charming arrangement with two circular sleeping platforms, wide blue decorative straps, and coordinated patterned cushions.
By creating quilted cushion covers, choosing durable fabrics, and adding carefully finished decorative details, you can achieve an attractive handmade appearance that complements your home.
The project is also highly customizable. You can experiment with different colors, patchwork combinations, cushion thicknesses, and washable covers to create a design that reflects your personal style.
Most importantly, the comfort and safety of your pets should guide every construction decision. The soft quilted components can be handmade, but the elevated load-bearing structure must be properly rated, securely installed, and regularly inspected.
With thoughtful planning and attention to detail, these DIY Quilted Cat Bed Cushions can become a lovely addition to a safe, professionally supported elevated pet resting area.
The result is a charming combination of handmade craftsmanship, beautiful fabric design, and a cozy place for your cats to relax.